The PATLIB centre carries out IP searches for the public. This service may range from relatively basic bibliographic searches (e.g. for a patent number, an applicant's or inventor's name, or the legal status of an application) to highly sophisticated searches concerning technical areas (state-of-the-art, novelty and infringement searches). Explanatory information, comments and interpretations of the search results may be provided with the search reports.

The PATLIB centre provides information on IP procedures, different kinds of IP rights, the requirements for filing an IP application, fees, search possibilities, etc. Legal advice is not included in this service.

The PATLIB centre assists in the commercialisation of IP rights. Activities in this respect may be establishing contacts with potential licensees, licensers and co-operation partners, preparing "invention briefs" and publicising innovations in respective databases.

Patent clinics

This service is provided in collaboration with local professional representatives (patent attorneys). The role of the PATLIB centre is to co-ordinate bilateral consultancy sessions between the attorney and the client and to provide the necessary information background (e.g. relevant documents and preparatory searches. Legal advice is given solely by the attorney.

IP strategy development

With this service PATLIB centres assist their clients in developing and implementing their IP strategies, e.g. what to protect, where and how, with whom to co-operate, etc.